Political Science and Liberal Arts Education in New York

The New York State Political Science Association (NYSPSA), a 65-year-old organization, is dedicated to promoting political science among scholars, government officials and students. It recognizes various sections within the realm of political science, all of which students aspiring to political science degrees in New York will study. These include American politics; Canadian politics; judicial process and law; law and society; political theory; comparative politics; gender, race and diversity; political theory; history and politics; public policy; public administration; state and local politics; teaching and learning; and international relations.

Higher education institutions throughout New York and online offer undergraduate and graduate majors in political science. Undergraduates can expect to take an average of 45 credits in political science topics including the above areas, plus general education courses required of all students regardless of major. Internships at major global communications organizations or financial firms may be available for New York political science students. Students who pursue graduate studies in political science usually aspire to become professors, researchers, high-ranking government officials and independent political scientists.

Political Science Careers in New York

Political science careers are abundant in New York, as the financial capital of the world is also a driving force in politics. Government agencies at all levels engage political science graduates for positions, as do private companies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and other organizations. Just as there are many financial journals originating in New York, for example, many political journals also are produced there, and opportunities for political writers, reporters and editors abound. Jobs in political law compliance within major financial firms are also possible for New Yorkers with political science degrees.

Many famous politicians got their start in New York politics. Some of them include President Theodore Roosevelt, who began his political career serving in the New York State Assembly for three years; Colin Powell, who became Secretary of State; four time New York Governor Alfred Emanuel Smith; and founding father of the United States John Jay, who was President of the Continental Congress.

How to Become a Politician in New York

In 2007, New York City's League of Women Voters offered a series of tutorials instructing the public on how to run for elected office in New York City. These were designed to introduce potential candidates to problems they might face when running for public office, as well as to instruct them on raising campaign funds, canvassing for votes, and how to win a debate.

The New York State Board of Elections posts helpful information on their website for state residents who wish to run for local, state, and national offices. For New Yorkers who wish to run for New York State Senate or New York General Assembly, check to make sure that you meet the following requirements:

Be a US Citizen

Be a resident of New York for at least 5 years immediately before the election

Be a resident of your district for at least 12 months immediately before the election

Be at least 18 years old

If you want to run for the New York seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, you must:

Be a US Citizen for the past seven years

Be at least 25 years old

Be a state resident at the time of your election to Congress

Wish to run for New York's Senate seat instead? You can if you meet these qualifications:

Be a US citizen for the past nine years

Be at least 30 years old

Be a New York resident at the time of election

To run for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General or Comptroller of New York, you must: